Los Angeles-based singer/guitarist Rod Melancon likes to write songs about his formative years growing up in Louisiana. These are richly colorful tales, or more to the point vivid characters, often based on real people and occurrences.
If his debut album from focused on the youthful innocence (and exuberance), his sophomore release takes on much darker edges. The stories chronicle topics like a soldier’s struggle readjusting to civilian life and a cousin who has a penchant for causing trouble, all set to bruising guitars and persistently ominous rhythms.
Here are two stand-outs from the aptly titled Southern Gothic to give you a rocking start to the week.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.